A guide to good living in the Brazos Valley
Inside... Financial literacy
Retirement rationing in Boomer divorces Pg. 3
Senior perks
Travel benefits for those 50 and up Pg. 8 September 2015 • Vol. 15, Issue 2 • A monthly publication of the Bryan-College Station Eagle
Fall festivals in the Brazos Valley and surrounding areas PAGE 6
50 Plus is a monthly publication of The Eagle 1729 Briarcrest Drive Bryan, Texas PUBLISHER Crystal DuPre
DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING
SPECIAL PROJECTS EDITOR/ PUBLICATION DESIGNER Shauna Lewis shauna.lewis@theeagle.com
Jeff Smith
DISPLAY ADVERTISING MANAGER Linda Brinkman
SPECIAL PROJECTS/ MARKETING COORDINATOR Erika Liesman
CONTENTS
Mental wellness: Help for those without memory Physical therapy: Exercise after surviving cancer Feature: Fall festivals
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Cover photo: A vendor makes pottery at last year’s Texas Reds Steak & Grape Festival. See story on upcoming festivals, page 6.
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How to determine retirement rationing in Boomer divorces There has been a trend toward a greater proportion of divorcees than widows and widowers among Boomers. According to Dr. Susan L. Brown, with Bowling Green State University, the divorce rate for those older than 50 has doubled in the past 20 years. “Lifelong marriages are increasingly difficult to sustain in an era of individualism and lengthening life expectancies; older adults are more reluctant now to remain in empty shell marriages,” she said. While older adults are looking for the alternative to remaining married, they are conscious of not having enough time left to rebuild lost retirement assets. They are also concerned about children’s college TracY Stewart costs, age-related Financial Literacy health costs and the inconvenience of starting over. People going through divorce are often unaware of the key bits of information relating to their personal financial situation. The assumptions that people make about these details lead to increased pain and frustration in the process of dividing the pie. Divorce at this age can be frightening. Perhaps the least understood area is the maze of options for dividing the treasured retirement benefits. There are complex rules for dividing retirement accounts. Some benefits cannot be divided. Retirement account conditions It is important to know which of the three kinds of conditions applies to your retirement benefits. These conditions are about vesting and maturity. Nonvested and nonmatured. This status exists when the employee has terminated employment and only has rights to the amount of his or her contributions to the plan and the interest earned. If the benefits in one of these accounts will vest soon, it might be a good idea to delay the divorce until after they are vested.
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Vested and nonmatured. This status exists when the employee has terminated employment, but in addition to the contributions, the employee can receive some benefits at a certain age. Nonemployee spouses can be awarded certain benefits that may turn out to be different than anticipated. Vested and matured. This status exists when the employee has terminated employment, but is currently entitled to certain benefits in addition to prior contributions. Dividing an account Next you have to know whether the account or benefit can be divided, or whether it must be traded with another asset. Whether an account can be divided is determined by the retirement plan’s administration and/ or by state or federal rules. When a tax-deferred defined contribution retirement account, such as a 401(k), is not going to be divided, it can be offset with other tax-deferred retirement accounts or with non-retirement assets. Tax-deferred retirement accounts will have income taxes due on the future withdrawals. Most non-retirement accounts do not have income taxes levied on withdrawals. To create a level field, you would want to estimate future income taxes on the retirement account, deducting them from the value of the retirement account. The resulting effect will be for the retirement account value to be converted from a taxable value to a non-taxable value (or an aftertax value) while the non-retirement account is also shown at a non-taxable value (because it has no future taxes due). It has the effect of making the offset closer to a trade between two like-kind assets. (There are some exceptions where a non-retirement account will have some taxes due. Those are handled accordingly in the calculations.) With a pension benefit, such as TRS or ERS, you can split the future monthly benefit checks, if allowed by law. If a trade or offset is preferred, a CPA or actuary can calculate the present value of the benefit checks.
This calculates the amount of money you would have to invest now in order to generate future monthly benefit checks identical to the pension benefit. The calculation includes details and assumptions resulting in the present value calculation. Since the calculation includes current interest rates, these results are likely to change almost daily. (This is not a do-it-yourself project.) The present value amount can be traded for other assets. Again, it can be important to estimate future income taxes on the benefits if you are trading for a non-retirement account. Qualified domestic relations orders When a retirement account is not going to be traded with another asset, a qualified domestic relations order (QDRO) could be needed to create the
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split. QDROs are court orders telling the retirement plan administrator to divide the account between the employee and the employee’s spouse (the alternate payee). QDROs are used for retirement plans such as 401(k) and 403(b) accounts and pensions. They are not required for IRAs. If you know people who are going through a later-life divorce, be a good friend and steer them to a CPA with special expertise in divorce issues. We are uniquely qualified to guide others through this minefield of retirement account choices because we can offer specific financial advice that differs from the legal advice provided by divorce attorneys. Contact Tracy B. Stewart, CPA, PFS, CFF, CDFA, CFP® at www. TexasDivorceCPA.com.
2015
September 1, 2015 | 3
How to serve someone who no longer remembers
“This is hard. Sometimes excruciating. I’m losing her in stages, one memory at a time,” Sam said. Sam’s wife Margaret had been battling dementia for years. “It started slowly. She began forgetting things. Like a jigsaw puzzle, parts of her disappeared, piece by piece. As time went on, the holes in the puzzle got larger,” he said. Gary Roe “I struggled. I got Hospice angry. I grew bitter about it. And then one day I woke up. I loved her. It was time I started learning about this stuff so I could meet her where she was, rather than trying to pull her back into my
world.” “All this is a thousand miles outside my comfort zone. But I’m doing it. I’m learning more every day about how to care for her and love her better,” Sam concluded. Chances are, all of us have a loved one or friend (or several) dealing with serious memory issues. Pieces of who they were are disappearing. Perhaps their personality is changing, as well. For us this can be shocking, sad and confusing. What can we do? How do we handle this? The first natural response is denial. We tell ourselves, “This can’t be happening. I don’t want this. So I’ll just live as if everything is OK and nothing has changed.”
When denial doesn’t work and we keep bumping into reality, many of us tend to turn tail and run. Since we don’t know what to do, we do nothing. Or perhaps we’re concerned about doing or saying the wrong thing, so we don’t call or come around as much. In an effort to distance ourselves from the pain of the situation, we pull away. As Sam said, challenges like this can be way outside our personal comfort zones. The funny thing about comfort zones is they don’t bring comfort. They slowly anesthetize our hearts and keep us from fully living and loving others. One definition of love might be to meet others where they are rather than requiring them to be where we are. Love challenges us to step outside of ourselves and risk. And that’s often
uncomfortable. As Sam said, “This is hard.” How can you serve someone who no longer remembers? Consider the following a quick summary - a sort of cheat sheet - on how to approach and relate to those who are slowly drifting away from you. 1. Find a good environment. Background noise and crowded rooms can be distracting to any conversation. But for someone with dementia or Alzheimer’s, it can be disorienting and anxiety producing. Find a quiet place with minimal
See Roe page 9
Exercise after surviving cancer helps reduce fatigue
I read your article on physical activity and benefits for Alzheimer’s disease. I am a cancer survivor, and a problem I continue to have is tiredness and low energy. I take care of myself and my husband OK, but I don’t have any energy for anything else.
Cancer affects more than 1 million people a year. It is a fact that 77 percent of all cancers affect those 55 and older. We are living longer today, and the possibility of getting cancer is high. We now know that 75 percent of all cancer risk is caused by environmental factors. These Leon Bradway factors include Physical Therapy tobacco, diets, chemicals, occupational hazards and radiation. Leading the charge for cancer producers are tobacco, diet and physical activity. Individuals who undergo cancer treatments suffer from fatigue and body weakness. Both are described by symptoms such as a sudden onset, overwhelming exhaustion/ lack of energy and no great relief or improvement from rest. Cancer treatments include radiation, surgeries and chemotherapy. These cancer treatments can cause side
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effects that interrupt the body’s natural physiological processes and create fatigue and loss of energy. The fatigue and muscle weakness is due to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, acid-base disturbances, hypoxia, neurologic toxicities, cardiac abnormalities and dizziness. Exercise is a good nonpharmacologic intervention to help minimize the side effects of fatigue. A research study in 2004 looked at exercise as an intervention and fatigue as the outcome and found a positive correlation in the reduction of cancer fatigue. The study looked at homebased aerobic and walking programs that proved effective for cancer related fatigue. The training exercise guidelines from this study included: Frequency of exercise – three to five days per week. Intensity: 50 to 70 percent of maximum heart rate or 11 to 13 on a Borg Perceived exertional scale. Duration: 15 to 30 minutes during each session. It is also necessary to begin a light resistance program two days per week. The resistance program can be started with using tubing, light weights or light weight machines that you have been instructed on how to use properly. Other avenues for exercises using the above guidelines are yoga, water
importantly, to realize the benefits of aerobics, Tia Chi, biking and dancing. exercise and help combat fatigue and An exercise and resistance program muscle weakness. can be started before, during and after cancer treatment(s). It is important to note that while exercise can be Leon Bradway is a doctor of physical important to you during your cancer therapy and director of the Sports, Back treatments, there are precautions to and Pain Management Clinic. See www. take. Your doctor of physical therapy bvphysicaltherapy.com. should be requesting your lab results each time IN-HOME SENIOR CARE SERVICES they are drawn to ensure continuity of care and ® your progress. You shouldn’t exercise: • The day of your chemotherapy treatment Interactive Caregiving® is the unique way our Comfort Keepers® and radiation. deliver care to our clients. It centers on four interrelated aspects • Before a blood draw – engagement of the mind, an active body, proper nutrition, and that could change certain safety. A plan of Care which addresses these aspects, together, values. will enhance quality of life and ultimately, independence. • When your white blood count is below 3000/ SERVICES mm. Companion Care • Personal Care • When hemoglobin is Light Housekeeping less than 10g/dl. In-Home Safety Solutions •When platelets are less than 25,000mm. As a physical therapist, I encourage you to consider a well thought out and planned exercise program. Your care and progress has to be monitored to 244 Southwest Parkway East • College Station, TX 77840 ensure safety and more
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Why do residents of Japan live longer?
Japanese live longer than people in other countries. Some, but not all, Japanese have two genes that protect them against some adult-onset diseases. Could it be the universal health care they have had since 1961? Not likely, because they spend about half of what the USA spends on health care. So maybe Japan spends less because its people are healthier and don’t dr. BILL KLeMM tHe MeMory MeDic need as much health care as we do. If you spend any time people watching, you must have noticed the larger numbers of Americans who are obese and out of shape. So what other factors might account for Japanese longevity? Consider diet, for example. Japanese eat lots of seafood and seaweed, both of which are considered healthy. They eat seaweed
regularly, as much as 4 to 6 grams a day. Seaweed contains large amounts of fucoidans, which are a source of necessary components of cell-surface molecules that facilitate cell-to-cell signaling, the core regulatory process responsible for everything from immunity and cardiovascular function to healthy cellular proliferation. Fucoidans reduce inflammation, which I explained in an earlier column is a major cause of premature aging. Westerners have near-zero fucoidans in their diet. Japanese also eat a lot of shiitake mushrooms, which have been used in Chinese medicine for thousands of years and have been shown to boost the immune system and lower cholesterol. Except for Sumo wrestlers, Japanese eat significantly less than we
2015
Robert Herring, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology
3091 University Drive East, #410 Bryan, TX 77802 www.listenhearaudiology.com
See Memory Medic page 9
Senior Circle is out to expand your horizons
Come play with someone your own age!
with an exciting calendar of events scheduled around town and around the world. If you’re 50 or better, want to meet new people, learn more about your health, travel and just have fun, then Senior Circle is for you. Dues are just $15 a year. To join or for more information, call 979-764-5107 or visit CSMedCenter.com. Become part of the Circle.
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The Most Important Thing in any Relationship
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September 1, 2015 | 5
Fall festivals in Brazos Vall By STACY CANTU Special to The Eagle
The Brazos Valley and surrounding areas will offer several fall festivals in September and October, featuring fun festivities ranging from a kolache-eating contest to dog races. Kolache Festival The 31st annual Kolache Festival will be held Sept. 12 in downtown Caldwell. The Kolache Festival is an annual celebration of the revitalization of Czech heritage. The festival will feature a Czech welcome; the crowning of Miss Kolache; Polka music; Czech dancers; Czech bands; a state championship Kolache Bake Show; a kolache eating contest; a street rod and classic car show; an antique tractor show; a quilt show; 200 arts and crafts vendors; 40 food vendors; the Kolache Bake Shoppe with more than 30,000 dozen kolaches from the best Czech bakeries in Texas; and the Kolache Krunch 5K Run/Walk, said Brenda van de Walle, executive director of the Burleson County Chamber of Commerce. “This is a free event to enjoy Czech culture in a family fun festival environment,” van de Walle said. A pre-festival party will be held Sept. 11 from 5:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. at the Burleson County Expo Center, at 905 South Green St. in Caldwell. Dinner will be held from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., and The Moravians will perform a concert from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. For more information, visit www.BurlesonCountyTX.com/kolachefestival. Texas Reds Steak & Grape Festival The Downtown Bryan Association will host the ninth annual Texas Reds Steak & Grape Festival in historic Downtown Bryan on Sept. 26 and 27. The festival will feature more than 20 Texas wineries, numerous craft beer breweries, more than 30 bands performing on five different stages, talented artists from across the country, the annual steak cook-off, a kids zone and a variety of food vendors. The festival will be held from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Sept. 26 and from noon to 5 p.m. on Sept 27. “The festival not only focuses on wine and steak, but also all things Texas,” said Amanda Reynolds, events and programs manager for the Downtown Bryan Association. “Ninety-Nine percent of our other activities at the festival are Texans. Food vendors, artists, breweries, musicians, even the activities in the Kids Zone are from businesses that are here locally. We also work locally with Bryan ISD to
Musicians perform at last year’s Texas Reds Steak & Grape Festival in Downtown Bryan.
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Women taste kolaches (above, left), and customers line up to buy kolaches (above, right), a highlight the wonderful Fine Arts Department and showcase their talent all day Saturday.” Admission to this year’s festival is free; however, there will be a cost for tickets to participate in the wine tasting, beer tasting, Saturday night steak dinner and the Kids Zone. “It’s a time to enjoy some of the best in Texas wine, food, music and art right here in our community, Reynolds said. “There’s no admission charge to get in, and discount tickets for wine and beer tastings, the Saturday night steak dinner and Kids Zone are available prior to the festival via our website. We’ve got a great and diverse music lineup spanning two days, and it’s free to enjoy the concerts.” For more information, visit http://texasredsfestival.com. Texas Renaissance Festival The Texas Renaissance Festival, at 21778 FM 1774 in Todd Mission, will be held during eight weekends from Oct. 10 to Nov. 29. The festival first opened in 1974 with just three stages and 15 acres of what was once an old strip-mining site. The festival is now the largest event of its kind in the nation, spanning almost 60 acres, and featuring eight themed villages lined with close to 400 shops and a cast of thousands of entertaining patrons from all over the world on more than 25 stages across the festival grounds. The festival provides an escape back to the 16th century. Entertainers, shopkeepers and staff dress in 16th century attire and speak the tongue of lords, ladies, paupers and wenches, to create an authentic Renaissance atmosphere, according to the website. Visitors can interact with jugglers, minstrels and fortunetellers and explore shops with a variety of handcrafted works of pottery, sculpted metal, woodcarvings, jewelry and other treasures. Festival games, hands-on demonstrations and colorful costumed characters are also part of the atmosphere. There is a theme for each weekend, ranging from Oktoberfest on Oct. 10 and 11 to Celtic Christmas on Nov. 27, 28 and 29. For more information, visit www.texrenfest.com.
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ley and surrounding areas Original Roundtop Antiques Fair The 48th annual Original Roundtop Antiques Fair will be held from Sept. 28 to Oct. 3 in Roundtop. The show will be held from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sept. 28, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Sept. 29 to Oct. 2, and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Oct. 3. The fair is located at 475 S Hwy 237 in Carmine. Venues for the show include the Big Red Barn, the Big Red Barn Tent, The Continental Tent and Carmine Dance Hall. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.roundtoptexasantiques. com.
at the 2014 Kolache Festival in Caldwell. Wiener Fest Wiener Fest, held by the Aggieland Humane Society, will be held on Oct. 24 at Wolf Pen Creek in College Station. “There will be great food vendors and music and lots of doggy events at the amphitheater,” said Kathy Bice, executive director of the Aggieland Humane Society. “It’s a great way to enjoy the day with your dog.” The festival will include a 5K fun walk-run where dogs and children are welcome, dog races for both dachshunds and any other type of dogs, a dog costume contest, a children’s area with activities, the presentation of the Humanitarian of the Year award, the presentation of the Volunteer of the Year award, dog-themed vendors and food vendors, and a Bark n Build dog house and furniture auction. Wiener Fest Boot Camp will be held on Oct. 23 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. This boot camp provides free race training for the dogs competing in the races the next day. For more information on this festival, including a full schedule of events, visit http://aggielandhumane.org/wienerfest.
Scarecrow Festival The 38th annual Scarecrow Festival, held by the Chappell Hill Historic Society, will be held Oct. 10 and 11 in downtown Chappell Hill. According to the website, the festival boasts more than 250 juried exhibitors (home décor, gardening, artists, craftsmen, jewelry, clothing, etc.), country-style food, live entertainment and music and tours of the historic community. A Children’s Activity Corner will provide pony rides, a petting zoo, face painting, a barrel train and more. The festival will be held from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Oct. 10 and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Oct 11, and the festival area is Main Street, Poplar Street and the property behind the Visitors Center. “The Scarecrow Festival is one of the largest and most unique festivals in Texas,” said Joel Romo, Chappell Hill Historical Society board member. “Everyone enjoys coming to Chappell Hill and spending time in the country. Romo said the Chappell Hill Historical Society puts up several scarecrows for the festival, and organizers encourage residents and local businesses to do the same. For more information on the Scarecrow Festival, visit www.chappellhillmuseum. org/scarecrow.html. Mushroom Festival The 14th annual Texas Mushroom Festival will be held Oct. 24 in Madisonville. Opening ceremonies will begin at 10 a.m. The festival will feature an auto showcase, a biergarten, cooking demos, a grape stomp, an art contest, a photo contest, a poster contest and arts and crafts vendors. There will be a Gala Dinner on Oct. 23 starting at 6:30 p.m. The dinner will offer a Champaign Social at 6:30 p.m., a dinner at 7:30 p.m. and an auction at 8:30 p.m. For more information on the Gala Dinner, email Susan Warmuth at galadinner@ texasmushroomfestival.com. For more information on the Texas Mushroom Festival visit http://texasmushroomfestival.com.
Washington County Fair The Washington County Fair will be held Sept. 11 to Sept. 19 in Brenham. The fair will be held at the Washington County fairgrounds located on FM 577 (Blue Bell Road) between highways 36 and 105. The Washington County Fair, which was the first county fair held in Texas, will offer concerts, rodeos, livestock shows, arts and craft shows, special attractions, a carnival, commercial exhibits and more. Events at the fair will include a barbecue cook-off, a wine event, a chuck wagon competition, a horseshoe tournament, a washers tournament, a talent show, a carnival and a children’s petting zoo. For a full schedule of events, visit www.washingtoncofair.com. Dogs race during last year’s Wiener Fest at Wolf Pen Creek in College Station. T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E
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Travel benefits for those ages 50 and up
MS -- One of the best things about aging is being able to enjoy the fruits of your labor without as many obligations as you might have had when you were a younger adult. For example, many people have a lot more freedom to travel once they turn 50. Many of today’s older adults have a wealth of discretionary time, and those who focused on retirement planning from an early age have the money to fund a recreational lifestyle. Travel companies and other businesses understand that Baby Boomers and other seniors are valuable customers and are rolling out the red carpet with a bevy of discounts and perks. AARP Services, Inc. has long been a trusted resource in seniorbased information and resources. The organization continues to broker relationships with various companies to arrange deals on travel-related services and products for older people. Members of AARP can link directly to deals through the organization’s website. Scheduling flexibility and discounts are just two of the perks awarded senior travelers. In addition to companies that work with AARP, many other travel companies have discounts or other deals are valid to ensure you can travel perks available to men and women over 50. All consumers need to do is inquire See Deals about such benefits. When in doubt, log on to the company’s website or page 11 give its customer service department a call. Here are some other ways to secure deals on travel and other services. • Do some networking. Fellow Dedicated to being seniors who log in to your preferred chat rooms or who are provider of medical members of social clubs equipment & supplies may have the inside scoop on age-based travel deals. Learn the ropes from others who have been there before you and take notes on which companies offer the best deals. • Read the fine print. Understand the details of senior discounts and compare them to other When you purchase a Lift Chair promotions offered to anyone, regardless of age. You may be able to get a better deal or combine Valid until 12/31/15. Free Delivery with purchase. offers if you’re not locked into a senior plan. Also, 979.696.0261 | altusmedicalequipment.com check the dates when 2551Texas Ave South Suite A | College Station,TX.
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Memory Medic from page 5
do. On the other hand, Japanese eat too much salt and foods with a high glycemic index (refined rice and bread). Japanese are more hygienic and health conscious than we are. They walk and cycle more than we do. Tai chi and yoga are widely practiced. Everybody gets a mass health screening, and the people are diligent in getting regular health checkups. Preventive medicine is a national priority, and it lowers costs. Japanese are very group oriented and have deep feelings of belongingness to organizations and social groups. Group walking is a popular social activity that is great exercise but also helps build a sense of community. Strong work ethic is common. Their government encourages people to delay retirement or begin second careers. In the U.S. our government will not
Roe
from page 4 distractions. It will help both of you be more present. 2. Treat them with dignity, respect and great value. I believe people are created in the image of God. We are all unique, special and of priceless value. This is true no matter what we think, say or do, or what happens to us or around us. When you think about your friend or loved one, contemplate their value and influence in life. Priceless. Immeasurable. Special beyond words. When you approach them, look into their eyes and see that value. He or she is one of a kind, unique in the history of the world. And they are here, now, with you. Because they remember less doesn’t make them less. Their value hasn’t changed. They are still priceless. 3. Don’t assume what they can or can’t understand or remember. Assumptions in any conversation can hinder good communication. When conversing with those who no longer remember, assumptions can be demeaning. For example, talking louder will not help (unless they are hard of hearing). Dumbing down or speaking to them like a child is belittling. Be yourself. Talk and communicate normally. You can adjust as you go, as you learn more about what and how much they can handle. Act consistent with the relationship you have with them. Share your memories. Tell the stories as often as you can or as you like. Pictures or familiar objects can be helpful. In many cases, you’ll be reminding them of great times they can no longer remember.
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raise the retirement age for social security. Japanese retire only when they have to, and then many get a new job or retire to farm. A life that we would call hard may be part of the secret. The longest longevity occurs in the Nagano mountainous region that has long and harsh winters. Actually, people in this area before 1981 died sooner than the Japanese average because of cardiovascular diseases from eating too much salt. When the Nagano people realized the problem and lowered salt consumption, the early-death problems went away. Okinawa serves as an instructive case study. In the past, people there lived longer than other Japanese. That is no longer true. The difference is that Okinawans now eat more red meat and fewer vegetables, particularly beans, lentils and peas, than in the past. Can we learn from these experiences? Even the Japanese are having trouble learning their own lessons. Japanese have increasing levels of smoking, alcohol consumption and bad diets. The
encroachment of Western ways into the Japanese lifestyle is likely to have the same deleterious effects on their health as has happened to us.
4. Speak directly to them. Approach them from the front and make eye contact. Smile and call them by name. Talk to them like you normally would. Over time, you’ll learn how to adjust to meet them more where they are. Be careful of talking “around” them - having conversations with others as if they weren’t there. Speak to them with dignity and respect.
would like to, living in the past is not a viable option. But treasuring the memories and good times is. Set your sights of walking with them on their journey and loving them there. Treat them with dignity and respect. Tell and show them how valuable they are. Look them in the eye, speak directly to them, and listen well. You can make more of a difference than you know.
5. Take time to listen. Communication is more about listening than speaking. It’s also much more than words. In fact, the majority of our communication is non-verbal: facial expression, eye contact, posture, gestures and other body language. Listen and observe. Let everything they say and do be important to you. Give them time to respond. Resist the temptation to fill the air with words because you’re uncomfortable. Listen to their words, their eyes, their face, their posture. Try and hear the heart behind it all.
Gary Roe is an author, speaker and chaplain with Hospice Brazos Valley. Visit his website at www.garyroe.com or contact him at groe@ hospicebrazosvalley.org or 979-821-2266.
6. Avoid correcting or arguing. Yes, they will make mistakes - lots of them. Pieces of unconnected memories get jumbled together. They may not remember things or people that are significant to you - or recall them totally erroneously. Your heart wants to pull them back into our world and into the memories that are precious to you. Unfortunately, this often creates anxiety and even frightens them. Take a deep breath, and meet them where they are. Many times they speak of someone dead as if they are still alive. They have forgotten the death. To remind them of the truth can actually re-traumatize them. It can be as if they are hearing it for the first time and grieving all over again. Enter their world. Be with them there. Your presence with them matters more than you realize. You will not be able to fix this. As much as we
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Sources: www.agewatch.org.uk/secrets-of-longevity/ japanese-longevity/ www.aarp.org/health/healthy-living/info-2014/ longevity-secrets-from-japan.html www.lifeextension.com/magazine/2011/5/thelittle-known-longevity-factor-in-the-japanese-diet/ page-01 Miyagi, S. et al. (2003). Longevity and diet in Okinawa, Japan: the past, present and future. Asia Pac J Public Health. 2003;15 Suppl:S3-9. “Memory Medic” is author of “Memory Power 101,” available in paperback at Amazon and “Better Grades, Less Effort,” an e-book available at www.smashwords. com/books/view/24623.
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September 1, 2015 | 9
CALENDAR Ongoing
Sit and Fit Chair Exercises - Gentle work out while sitting in a chair. Features fat-burning aerobics and weight lifting. Seniors meet at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, from noon to 1 p.m. For more details, contact 979-764-6351 or mrodgers@cstx.gov. Line Dancing - Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, holds line dancing for seniors on Tuesdays from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. and on Fridays from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. For more information, contact 979-764-6351, 979764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov. Bluegrass Jam Session – Bluegrass Jam Session is from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. on Tuesdays at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. All levels. Bring string instruments and a friend. For more details, contact 979764-6351 or mrodgers@cstx.gov. Friday Bridge - Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, offers bridge for seniors on Fridays from 9 to 11:30 a.m. For more, contact 979-764-6351 or mrodgers@cstx.gov. Learn how to play 42 dominoes Learn the game of 42 every Wednesday from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. Contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351 or mrodgers@cstx.gov for more information. 42 dominoes - Seniors meet every Thursday to play 42 at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. For more details, contact 979-7646351 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.
Game Night from 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesdays at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. Table games and dominoes provided or bring your own favorite game. Meet friends and enjoy a fun game night. For more information contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@ cstx.gov. Line Dance workshop for Beginners – Seniors are invited to a free line dance workshop for beginners, held from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. on the first through third Monday of each month, at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. Learn the steps and terminology. No registration necessary. Call 764-6351 or email mrodgers@cstx.gov for more information. Dominoes - Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, plays dominoes all day on Tuesdays and Fridays and from noon to closing Wednesdays. Sack lunch for those playing dominoes from 11:30 a.m. to noon Wednesdays. For more details: 979-8226873/ www.brazoscountyseniorcitizens. weebly.com. Bridge – Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, plays Bridge from 12:30 p.m. until closing on Tuesdays; noon to closing on Thursdays; and 12:20 p.m. to closing Fridays. Partner needed Tuesdays and Thursdays. For more details: 979-822-6873 or www. brazoscountyseniorcitizens.weebly.com. Games - Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, plays board games, Scrabble and other card games on Tuesdays. For more details: 979-822-6873/ www. brazoscountyseniorcitizens.weebly.com.
Bible study – Bible study is held for seniors at 9:15 a.m. every Thursday at Lincoln Center, 1000 Eleanor St. in College Station. Contact 979-764-3779 or awilliams@cstx.gov for more information.
Bible study - Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, holds Bible study 9:15 to 9:45 a.m. on Wednesdays. For more information, call 979-822-6873 or visit www. brazoscountyseniorcitizens.weebly.com.
Learn to play Maj Jongg - Seniors interested in learning the game will meet at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station on Thursdays from 9 to 11:30 a.m. For more information, call 764-6371 or email mrodgers @cstx.gov.
Exercise class - Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, holds exercise class 9:45 to 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays. For more details, call 979-822-6873 or visit www. brazoscountyseniorcitizens.weebly.com.
Game Night - Seniors are invited to
10 | September 1, 2015
Bingo - Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, plays
Bingo 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Wednesdays. For more details: 979-822-6873 or www. brazoscountyseniorcitizens.weebly.com. Canasta - Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, plays Canasta from 11:30 a.m. to closing on Thursdays. For more details, call 979-822-6873 or visit www. brazoscountyseniorcitizens.weebly.com. Dominoes 9 - Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, plays Dominoes 9 all day Fridays. For more details: 979-822-6873 or www. brazoscountyseniorcitizens.weebly.com. Potluck luncheon - Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, has a potluck luncheon 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Fridays. For more, call 979-822-6873 or visit www. brazoscountyseniorcitizens.weebly.com. One-on-one computer help - Held 6 to 8 p.m. Mondays and Saturdays at Larry J. Ringer Library, 1818 Harvey Mitchell Pkwy. S. in College Station. Contact the Reference Desk to schedule a 30-minute session, at 979-764-3416. For more information, visit www.bcslibrary.org.
Sept. 2
Computer Club For Seniors: “How to use Skype and Social Media” - The Computer Club is open to all seniors interested in learning more about the computer world. The meetings are held at Carter’s Creek Training Room, 2200 North Forest Parkway in College Station starting at 9:30 a.m. No pre-registration needed. For more information contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.
Sept. 9
Acrylic Painting Class - Class held from 9 a.m. to noon on Wednesdays from Sept. 9 through Oct. 14, at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. Learn the basic techniques of painting, including base coating, brush care, brushstrokes and more. Cost of the class is $45. Register at rectrac.cstx.gov or visit the College Station Parks and Recreation Department, at 1000 Krenek Tap Road. Call 979-764-3486 for more information.
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Sept. 14
Free help for IPad users – Class meets from 9 to 10 a.m. at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. Want to learn how to get the most out of your iPad? Bring your iPad for some free tips. Class size is limited. Pre-register by calling 979-764-6371. Free help for tablet users – Class held from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. Bring your tablet and learn how to get the most out of technology. Class size is limited. Preregister by calling 979-764-6371. Drawing Class – Held from 10 a.m. to noon on Mondays for six weeks beginning Sept. 14, at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. Learn the basics of drawing, including basic theory, perspective and principles for compositions. Class fee is $45. Register at rectrac.cstx.gov or visit the College Station Parks and Recreation Department, at 1000 Krenek Tap Road. Call 979-764-3486 for more information. Watercolor I Class – Class starting Sept. 14 is held from 1 to 4 p.m. on Mondays for five weeks. This beginner’s course focuses on basic painting tools and materials, watercolor techniques, composition, color theory and the art of watercolor. Cost is $45. Register at rectrac.cstx.gov or visit the College Station Parks and Recreation Department, at 1000 Krenek Tap Road. Call 979-764-3486 for more information. Genealogy Class for Beginners – Class held from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. on Mondays, starting Sept. 14, for six weeks. Held at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. Solve the mystery of your family’s origin and history using different methods of research. Cost is $35. Register at rectrac. cstx.gov or visit the College Station Parks and Recreation Department, at 1000 Krenek Tap Road. Call 979-764-3486 for more information.
Sept. 15
The Westerners - The Westerners meet from 6:30 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. at the Party Room at Wings ‘N More, at the
See Calendar page 11 T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E
Calendar
from page 10 intersection of Texas Avenue and Deacon in College Station. The purpose of The Westerners is to stimulate interest and research in western frontier history. The program for the evening will be presented by Rick Page, speaking on “History and Anecdotes of Texas High School Football.” Page is former athletic director for Corpus Christi ISD and was recently inducted into the Austin College Hall of Fame. Attendees are encouraged to wear western or Texas attire. Social time begins at 6:30 p.m., followed by the meeting at 7 p.m. For dinner reservations contact Georgianne Bigam, trail boss, at 979-846-7619, or email BrazosCorral@gmail.com.
Sept.16
Genealogy Computer User Group: “Using Open Office to record and create” – Meets from 9:30 to 11 a.m. on the third Wednesday of each month at Carter Creek Training Room, at 2200 N. Forest Parkway. The group shares an interest in computer genealogical information. No registration is required. Open to all older adults. Exploring History Luncheon: “Kyle
Deals
from page 8 when you want to. • Always carry proof of age. Whether it is a driver’s license, AARP card, passport or birth certificate, carry proof of your age at all times. You do not want to miss out on a discount because you cannot verify you are 50 or older. Though being mistaken as younger could be a boost to your ego, it will not benefit your bottom line. • Explore airline perks. Those 55 and older may be eligible for “golden-agers” discounts at major airlines. Such deals are not typically advertised, so you may need to speak with an airline representative to secure the discount. Seniors also can request special services, such as baggage assistance, priority seating and a ride to the gate, at the airport. • Try negotiating with
Field & A&M Athletics” - The College Station Historic Preservation Committee and the College Station Parks and Recreation Department present monthly lectures on the history of the community, with lunch. Luncheons are held at Aldersgate Church, at 2201 Earl Rudder Fwy S. A reservation is necessary for lunch and the cost is $5. Lunch is served at 11:30 a.m. The speaker will begin at noon. Make reservations the Friday before the luncheon by contacting 979-764-6351 or mrodgers@ cstx.gov.
Sept. 17
Movie & Popcorn: “The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel”- Seniors are invited to enjoy a free movie and popcorn at Southwood Community Center. Movie begins at 1 p.m. Contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351 or email mrodgers@cstx.gov for more information.
Sept. 21
Beginning Computer 101 Class - Class meets from 9 to 10:30 a.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays for two weeks (starting Sept. 21) at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. Participants will start with the
basics and progress to software, email, creating and saving files and how to search on the Internet. Cost of the class is $45. Register online at rectrac.cstx.gov or visit the College Station Parks and Recreation Department, at 1000 Krenek Tap Road. Call 979-764-3486 for more information. Intermediate Computer 102 Class - Class meets for two weeks on Monday and Wednesday from 10:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. A continuation from Computer 101. Learn more helpful tips and tools. Cost is $45. Register at rectrac.cstx.gov or visit the College Station Parks and Recreation Department, at 1000 Krenek Tap Road. Call 979-764-3486 for more information. Stress Busting Program - This free program is held from 10 to 11:30 a.m. on Mondays for nine weeks, starting Sept. 21. Held at Lincoln Center, 1000 Eleanor St. in College Station. Program is designed to provide support to family caregivers of persons with a disability, grief, loss or depression. Learn to take time for yourself. Register by calling 979-764-3779 or emailing awilliams@cstx.gov.
Sept. 25
eight-week class starts Sept. 25, and will be held from 10 to 11:30 a.m. on Fridays at Lincoln Center, 1000 Eleanor St. Class is proven to reduce fear of falling and improve activity levels in older adults. Seminars provided by Texas A&M’s Program on Healthy Aging, School of Public Health and the Texas A&M Health Science Center. Register by calling 979-764-3779 or emailing awilliams@cstx.gov. BINGO & Birthday Celebration Seniors are invited on the last Friday of each month to celebrate birthdays for that month with cake and bingo. Join at 1 p.m. at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. For more information, contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.
Sept. 28
College Station Senior Advisory Committee Meeting - The Senior Advisory Committee meets from 10 to 11:30 a.m. on the last Monday of each month at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. Visitors are welcome. Contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351 or email mrodgers@cstx.gov for more information.
A Matter of Balance Class – Free
that can save you time and Entering into your golden Don’t feel down if you’re vendors. If you cannot find money on travel. years gives you access to a approaching another a senior discount, consider variety of perks and discounts milestone birthday. negotiating with vendors for deals. Local hotels or businesses may prove more flexible Lawn & Gardening Services than national chains. It never hurts to ask We are a mom & pop lawn service team that offers professional services for all your lawn and garden needs. Our for a senior discount. work is done with pride to your specifications. We are always personally on every job site and available for consultation. • Embrace References available from our satisfied customers! flexibility in Mowing • Edging • Trimming scheduling. Bed Preparation/ Planting • Mulching Unlike students or business travelers, Convenient, comfortable and maintenance-free, our seniors tend to community is rich with friendships and brimming with 979.777.1714 | dist7461@hotmail.com have freedom with opportunities for growth, socializing and entertainment. regard to the days And to help our residents indulge in our worry-free of the week when lifestyle, we offer Life Care, the cost management they can travel. You plan for long-term care and estate protection. have the flexibility to go and come as you please without having to coordinate with vacation time CRESTVIEW or school breaks. Use this to your INDEPENDENT LIVING • ASSISTED LIVING • MEMORY advantage and travel SUPPORT SKILLED NURSING CARE • REHAB CARE during off-peak times when crowds 888.392.8765 • mrccrestview.org • 2505 E. Villa Maria Rd. Bryan, TX will be small and Follow us at AL#104850 rates may be lower. Free Estimates!! Give us a call!!
T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E
Julian & Jan McMurrey
Fulfillment Focused Senior Living
A N M RC H E A LT H Y L I V I N G C O M M U N I T Y
Crestview Healthy Living Community
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S T.
J O S E P H
O R T H O P E D I C S
FOR US, IT’S
PERSONAL AL F LIFE FOR YOU, IT’S QUALITY OF As an orthopedic surgeon, I’m commited to my patient for the long haul. From their very first appointment until they fully reach their goal. BARRY VEAZEY, MD
Having practiced for over 20 years in this community, Dr. Veazey is invested in his patients. As part of St. Joseph Orthopedics, he’s committed to a personal approach to treatment – backed by experience and anchored in superior outcomes. St. Joseph Orthopedics offers patients a conservative approach based on their unique needs. We never rush to surgery. And we make individualized patient care our first priority. From major joint replacements and joint revisions to sports medicine and general orthopedics, St. Joseph g Orthopedics is focused on getting you back to your life and the things you love.
To make an appointment,
call 979.731.8888 or go online to st-joseph.org/ortho.
ST. JOSEPH ORTHOPAEDIC ASSOCIATES 2803 Earl Rudder Fwy. Suite 103 College Station, TX 77845 979.731.8888 From major joint replacements and joint revisions to sports medicine and general orthopedics, we get you back to the activities you love.
Anthony Zissimos, MD | Mark Riley, MD | Justin Brazeal, MD | Joseph Iero, MD
st-joseph.org 12 | September 1, 2015
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T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E